Some classic drink combinations seem so made for each other as to prohibit tinkering: gin and tonic, for example, even rum and coke. Yet event the best recipes can benefit from some spicy stirring up. Enter Boeing procurement manager Eric Salenski and software salesman and consultant Matt Hemeyer with their startup, Addition (drinkaddition.com), to add what some cocktail lovers have been subconsciously longing for: a savory kick.

Make a purchase from Sarah Jessica Parker’s Nordstrom-exclusive SJP Collection of shoes, handbags and trench coat between February 28, when it launches and March 5, when she makes an in-person appearance at the downtown store, and meet the woman herself.

If you didn’t know it, Seattle and Reykjavik, Iceland, are sister cities. Recently, in a bit of sibling communing, Daniel Brancusi, who is the brand ambassador for Iceland’s Reyka vodka, came to town to promote the city connection, as well as to talk about the vodka. He even made some Seahawks drinks on local TV – realizing that to really be sibling cities, the Icelandic folks needed to back our local heroes. While he was here, I had a chance to sit down and talk to him about the two cities, vodka, a few great drink recipes and more.

Lots of things get announced on Facebook these days, but it's still sad and a bit jarring to see a restaurant announce its final day. Yesterday afternoon, Daisley Gordon turned to social media to let the public know that he's closing his "hidden gem" bistro Marché after a nearly two-and-a-half-year run in the heart of Pike Place Market:
Dear Friends,

Wow, it’s hard to believe, but Sassoon’s Seattle location is turning 5 this week and to celebrate, they’re offering giveaways every five minutes between 5 and 5:55 p.m. on Wednesday, February 19. Prizes will include $5 haircuts, relaxing treatments, products and a grand prize package that includes a cut, color, treatment and blowout, which is a $350 value.

Today, February 14, is a big one for Nordstrom—and for rap superstar Drake. This Valentine’s Day marks the launch of Nordstrom’s fourth Pop-In concept shop, Heartbreakers Club, and the first time that Drake’s clothing collective, October’s Very Own (OVO), will hit the retail racks.

Ok, so the big day is tomorrow. If you’re looking for a good gift for your gal, or are in the market for some super self-love, check out these heart-shaped goodies from local merchants.
Heart milagros necklaces from Riversong, $198

Must Rock OutParty with Local Band TacocatFriday (2/14, 9 p.m.) — Brandishing a riot-grrrls-meet-The-Go-Go’s sound, Tacocat charms fans with funny songs about waiting for the No. 8 Metro bus, fear of toxic shock syndrome and a psychic cat that predicts nursing-home deaths. The band celebrates the release of its second full-length record, NVM (as in “never mind”), at Chop Suey on Friday night.

Solid Ground and Seattle Food Committee have teamed up with local mom and designer Jennifer Porter for Food Driving Box to help with hunger and food insecurity in the Seattle Area.
February is a historically low month for food donations, says Porter, who has worked to stock 27 Seattle food banks with free cardboard boxes to keep in your trunk to fill with donations. They’re convenient and reusable and since they’re in your trunk, always top of mind.

Flower giving will be in full bloom this weekend as sweethearts descend upon restaurants and card aisles in time for Valentine’s Day.
Whether Friday, February 14 is a big huzzah for you, or more of a laid-back love celebration, we think flowers are always an appreciated gesture, especially when they’re sourced sustainably.

Last week, we told you about some fantastic first date bars, in preparation for possible first dates happening around the big romantic day. But for many, Valentine’s Day isn’t when first dates happen. Instead, it’s a time to select the ideal drink to celebrate a long-term relationship—either a drink made with care by one of our fine local bartenders, or one made with care at home. So, here are four cocktail options to help ensure a perfect Valentine’s Day whether you’re staying in or going out.

This morning, we editors were invited to take a tour of the Zara Seattle flagship store (opening tomorrow) in downtown's Westlake Center -- mere steps from our offices, which I see as being a huge problem for the old pocketbook.